initiates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initiates" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of starting or beginning something, such as a process, action, or event. Example: "The new software update initiates a series of improvements to the system's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The US Copyright Office allows registration, but since 1989, simply creating a work that is "fixed in a tangible form that it is perceptible either directly or with the aid of a machine or device" initiates copyright protection.

The Economist

Mr Cornswalled writes:Just as the male moment of issue [ie, orgasm] releases his seed into his wife, the female moment of issue initiates the "up suck," where the husband's seed is drawn into the womb by the cervix.

The Economist

Perhaps most remarkably, the Chistis accepted recalcitrant non-Muslims as Sufi initiates.

The Economist

It is accused of tolerating the sport's unsavoury practices, from possible match-rigging to the abusive treatment of initiates.

The Economist

The use of a pretentious private vocabulary reassures authors and readers that they are initiates in an exclusive sect.

The Economist

Doing so initiates an order to replenish whatever is needed, from detergent to bottled water, and the order is shipped to the customer's home.Is the habit of sitting down at a computer to shop online becoming passé?

The Economist

It initiates actions against members for such offences as illegal state aid, running excessive budget deficits or having filthy beaches.

The Economist

Thankfully, the author refrains from indulging in the sort of hagiography that marks so much sports writing, which makes this a great book for educated non-fans and recent initiates to American sports to kick off with.

The Economist

This imparts momentum to the robot's frame and thus initiates a hop.

The Economist

In the archaebacterium, yellow light causes proteins to start pumping chloride ions into the cell, as part of its energy-generation mechanism.Seeing the lightThe reason these mechanisms are of interest to neurologists is that bringing sodium ions into nerve cells initiates electrical activity, while bringing in chloride ions shuts activity down.

The Economist

The announcement of that event will provide the sought-after spark that initiates the next bull market.Daniel DonoghueChicagoTaking responsibilitySIR – Your article on Reebok misrepresents the goals of corporate-responsibility programmes ("Reebok, ethically unemployed", November 30th).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "initiates" when you want to emphasize the action of starting a process or setting something in motion, particularly in formal or technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "initiates" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "starts" or "begins" are more appropriate. Overusing it can make your language sound unnecessarily formal or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The word "initiates" functions as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of 'initiate'. It describes the action of starting or setting something in motion. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard and grammatically correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initiates" functions as a verb denoting the commencement of an action or process, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in formal and technical contexts like news, scientific writing, and business reports. While simpler alternatives exist, "initiates" emphasizes the starting action. Be mindful of context to avoid overuse in casual settings. Given its frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The Economist and the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, it's a reliable choice for formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starts

A basic and direct synonym indicating the beginning of an action or process.

begins

Similar to 'starts' but can imply a more formal or significant commencement.

commences

A more formal synonym for 'begins', often used in official or ceremonial contexts.

triggers

Implies that something causes another event or process to start.

launches

Suggests a more deliberate and often public beginning, like a campaign or product.

sets off

Similar to 'triggers' but often used for processes that involve a chain reaction.

instigates

Implies actively provoking or initiating an event, often with a negative connotation.

inaugurates

Suggests a formal or ceremonial beginning, often used for institutions or periods.

originates

Focuses on the source or initial point from which something starts.

establishes

Implies setting up or creating a foundation for something to begin or develop.

FAQs

What does "initiates" mean?

The word "initiates" means to begin or start something. It is often used to describe the action of setting a process, event, or series of actions in motion.

How can I use "initiates" in a sentence?

You can use "initiates" in a sentence to describe the act of beginning something, such as "The new software update "initiates" a series of improvements" or "The meeting "initiates" the planning phase".

What are some synonyms for "initiates"?

Some synonyms for "initiates" include "starts", "begins", "commences", "triggers", and "launches". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "initiates" formal or informal?

"Initiates" is generally considered a more formal term. In casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "starts" or "begins" might be more appropriate.